IntroductionOn April 22, 2002, the Community Anti-Drug
Coalition of America (CADCA) issued a
press release alerting parents and
communities about the possible hazards of "Zippers" gelatin shots. "Zippers,"
fruit-flavored gelatin cups, contain 12 percent alcohol, roughly the same amount
of alcohol found in a glass of wine. The concern of public health groups is that
"Zippers" may be enticing to underage drinkers who do not like the taste of beer
or liquor; that grocery stores will not properly code the alcohol-laced gelatin
making it easier for young people to buy; and that with their bright packaging
and labeling the gelatin looks like the type of dessert packs eaten by thousands
of children each day.

Pennsylvania Addresses "Zippers"Contending that the "Zippers" gelatin shot
manufacturer is targeting children in the packaging and promotion of its
product, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB)
announced on May 1, 2002,
that "Zippers" would not be sold in the state. PLCB Chairman, John E. Jones,
stated "because these gelatin shots so closely resemble children’s snacks, they
pose a significant health and safety risk to youngsters who may mistake them for
their usual gelatin treat."

Action Opportunity"Zippers" are currently being sold in at least
20 states (see list below). Follow Pennsylvania’s lead and express your concern
about the inappropriateness of the packaging and promotion of this product in
your state. Specifically:

Confirm whether "Zippers" are sold in your state.

Organize groups in your state to contact state liquor
control boards to ask them to disallow sales or require new labeling and
product packaging that doesn’t entice young people and are easily
distinguishable from non-alcoholic gelatin snacks. Cite the Pennsylvania
example mentioned above.